Why The Boys Love Lydia

Most males are pretty macho when it comes to playing and/or watching sport – big hits, knockouts, takeouts and wipeouts. So why are so many of our kiwi men spending so much time following Lydia Ko’s progress on the golf scene?

Probably it’s because even the most testosterone-charged of us still enjoys a bit of sporting finesse. Sure, we can watch Dustin and Rory and the rest belt out million-mile drives – but Lydia and a lot of the other girls on the LPGA circuit brings us a different take on the game. Their ability to hit greens from a good distance, get close to the pin and sink some sensational putts shows us mere mortals how skill can be at least the equal of brute force.

Add to that’s Lydia’s brilliant approach to the golfing life. She enjoys it, unlike a lot of the boorish Pros (no names but you know who we mean) on the men’s circuit. Probably it’s easy to smile when you’ve got bucks spilling out of your back pocket -but it’s great to see her and other LPGA players actually smiling while they play. Sure, our grim rugby players, our leaguies and their like, can all crank out a bit of a grin after the game but you’ve got to wonder how much fun they’re having while they’re out on the field.

OK, we don’t want the boys going all gooey. We still want tough physical contests and, ifwe’re honest, don’t mind a bit of biff now and then. But do we have to buy into the feeling they all hate each other. Hell, they play with each other enough, they share a few beers after the game, so why not a bit of “mate” attitude while they’re on the field.

Maybe we’re dreaming. But if you want to see top quality sport played with intensity – but also laced with camaraderie – check out the LPGA. For the “real” males, there are some good-looking girls out there – but, more than that, there’s a good look about the way they play the game.